James McCaffrey, celebrated for his voice role in the Max Payne video game series and his acting in “Rescue Me,” has died at 65. The news of his death was confirmed by his wife, Rochelle Boström.
It has been reported that McCaffrey succumbed to multiple myeloma, a cancer that affects the bone marrow and white blood cells. His death occurred at his Larchmont, New York home, surrounded by family and friends, on Sunday, December 17.
Actor Kevin Dillon paid homage to McCaffrey on social media, expressing grief and high regard for his late friend. Denis Leary, McCaffrey’s co-star in “Rescue Me,” also shared his condolences through online platforms.
McCaffrey’s tenure in the entertainment world spanned more than 35 years. He was known for his appearances in various television series, including “New York Undercover,” “Viper,” “Sex and the City,” “Suits,” “Blue Bloods,” “As the World Turns,” and “Jessica Jones.” His most significant television role was as Jimmy Keefe in “Rescue Me,” where he portrayed a New York firefighter who perished on 9/11 and appeared as a ghost to his cousin, Tommy Gavin, played by Denis Leary. This role of Jimmy Keefe was integral to the series, serving as a moral compass and emotional pivot throughout its seven seasons.
In the video game realm, McCaffrey made a lasting impact with his voice role as Max Payne. He voiced this character, a vengeful former NYPD officer turned DEA agent, in various installments of the series, released between 2001 and 2012.
McCaffrey is survived by his wife, actress Rochelle Boström, and their daughter, Tiernan.
